Beyond the Files: Conversations with Pakistani Civil Servants

Beyond the Files: Conversations with Pakistani Civil Servants

Binding: Paperback | Kindle (Amazon)
Pages: 360
Language:  English
Publisher: IPS Press
Publication date: 04 Aug, 2025s
ISBN: 978-969-448-856-1
Price: Kindle E-Book: USD6 | Paperback (Amazon): USD25
For Sample: Read here at https://read.amazon.co.uk/sample/B0FL7YH6YZ?clientId=share  

About the Book

Beyond the Files is the first volume in a series based on oral histories narrated by Pakistani public policy practitioners. Over the past five years, the IPS team has documented the lives and experiences of more than 30 individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping public policy in Pakistan. This initiative, known as The Living Scripts Project, is a unique blend of academic research, journalism, and social science inquiry.

The scope of “policy practitioners” encompasses bureaucrats, elected representatives, political party members, academics, civil society advocates, and other professionals involved in policy and advocacy. This inaugural volume features narrations from 12 individuals – all except one are former federal civil servants. Those familiar with Pakistan’s governance landscape know that bureaucrats have long been at the forefront, not only in routine administration but also in national political affairs. They have served as both witnesses to history and architects of change.

Through The Living Scripts Project, IPS seeks to spotlight personal narratives that offer deep insights into Pakistan’s public policy sphere. The project remains an ongoing endeavor committed to preserving and sharing these invaluable experiences.

Key Features:

  1. Unique Insights into Civil Service
    The book presents engaging conversations with experienced Pakistani civil servants, shedding light on their struggles, achievements, and lessons learned.
  2. Behind-the-Scenes Narratives
    Goes beyond official files to reveal the personal experiences, ethical dilemmas, and decision-making challenges faced by officers.
  3. Inspirational and Informative
    Offers motivation and guidance for aspirants of competitive exams by presenting real-life stories of civil servants.
  4. Diverse Themes
    Covers governance, policy implementation, social reforms, personal integrity, and the culture of bureaucracy in Pakistan.
  5. Conversational Style
    Written in an easy-to-read manner, making complex realities of administration accessible to both students and general readers.

 

Recommended For:

  • CSS, PMS, PCS aspirants
  • Public Administration and Governance students
  • Readers interested in civil services, bureaucracy, and policymaking in Pakistan
  • General readers exploring the human side of Pakistani bureaucracy

 

Share this post